Picture a cozy evening with loved ones gathered around the table, the air filled with laughter and the rich, comforting smell of meatballs smothered in a luscious Guinness glaze. That's the kind of magic these Slow Cooker Guinness Glazed Meatballs can bring to your dinner time. This dish combines the beloved tradition of hearty meatballs with a nod to the Irish classic, Guinness stout, which adds a depth of flavor that's both surprising and familiar. It's the perfect hearty meal for any occasion, from game day gatherings to family dinners. Plus, using frozen meatballs makes this recipe a convenient delight, giving you more time to enjoy with those you cherish.
These meatballs pair splendidly with a variety of sides. For a classic comfort meal, serve them on a bed of buttery mashed potatoes or alongside some warm, garlic bread. They also go great with roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts for a more wholesome twist or over egg noodles for a hearty pasta dish. And for those with a love for Irish tradition, a side of colcannon—mashed potatoes mixed with kale or cabbage—truly makes it a feast.
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Slow Cooker Guinness Glazed Meatballs
Servings: 6-8 servings
Servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients
- 1 (32 ounce) bag of frozen meatballs
- 1 cup Guinness stout
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
- 1 cup Guinness stout
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
1. In your slow cooker, whisk together the Guinness stout, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and black pepper. Taste and add salt as needed.
2. Add the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker, tossing gently to coat them in the Guinness glaze.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, making sure to stir occasionally, until the meatballs are thoroughly heated and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
4. Once done, give the meatballs a final gentle stir and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
5. Serve hot and watch them disappear!
Variations & Tips
- If you have picky eaters who may not enjoy the stout flavor, you can reduce the Guinness to a 1/2 cup and add 1/2 cup of beef broth for a milder taste.
- For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the glaze mixture.
- These meatballs also make a tantalizing appetizer. Stick toothpicks in each one and serve them up at your next party.
- Remember to occasionally stir the meatballs during the cooking process to ensure they are evenly coated with that yummy glaze.
- If you've got leftovers, they reheat beautifully for a quick and satisfying sandwich filler—just grab some hoagie rolls and maybe a slice of provolone cheese, and you’re good to go!
- For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the glaze mixture.
- These meatballs also make a tantalizing appetizer. Stick toothpicks in each one and serve them up at your next party.
- Remember to occasionally stir the meatballs during the cooking process to ensure they are evenly coated with that yummy glaze.
- If you've got leftovers, they reheat beautifully for a quick and satisfying sandwich filler—just grab some hoagie rolls and maybe a slice of provolone cheese, and you’re good to go!
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Embrace the joy of cooking with your heart and watching those soulful smiles around the dinner table. That's what these meatballs are all about.